Myung-whun Chung becomes first Asian to lead Milan’s opera house

FILE - South Korean conductor and pianist Myung-whun Chung poses for a photographer after being awarded with the Commander of Arts and Letters medal in Paris, on June 29, 2009. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

South Korean conductor Myung-whun Chung was named the new musical director of the famed Milan opera house, Teatro alla Scala, the first Asian to hold the position.

Chung (pic) will replace Riccardo Chailly at the end of next year, and will remain in the role until general manager and artistic director Fortunato Ortombina’s term ends in February 2030, La Scala said in a statement on Monday.